How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
There are a few indicators that indicate your double-glazed windows must be fixed. Draughts and water ingress are obvious indicators of damage to window frames. They should be repaired as soon as is possible.
Misting can also indicate that the window seals are in need of replacement. Replacing the seals can fix the issue and stop condensation, draughts or leaks.
Broken Panes
Broken glass is one of the most frequent issues that double-glazed windows have to face. Double-pane windows are more difficult to break than single panes, however accidents do happen. You will want to repair a damaged glass as quickly as possible.
The first step is to get rid of any glass fragments that are loose that remain in the frame. Wear eye protection and gloves while removing the glass because it could be extremely sharp. Once the shards have been removed, inspect the floor of your home for other pieces that are loose. Also, it's an excellent idea to look for any metal hooks that may be holding the panes in place and remove them also.
After the glass is removed, you can begin the process of removing the old glazing compound and glazing points (small fasteners that fix the glass to the window frame) and replacing them with new ones. This is a time-consuming process and you will need several tools to complete the task. You'll need latex glazing putty, pliers, glazing points, pliers, heat gun and a putty blade.
When you are removing the old glazing compound and points, it's best to start at the top of the sash, and begin to work your way down. This will keep any wood or paint that is removed from the sash from adhering to the tool. Also, if you end up removing some of the sash's wood, ensure that you employ a chisel or a utility knife instead of a chemical stripper as this can cause damage.
Finally, when you're finished make sure you scrub any wood that's not finished to smooth it. Once the wood is smooth then you can seal it using linseed or clear wood sealer. This will help protect it against water and future damage.
There are a few easy fixes you can attempt for a cracked double-pane window however, these methods will not repair the crack and should only be used as a temporary measure. Use of silicone caulk will aid in sealing the gap. However it is essential to use high-quality caulk with proper application techniques.
Condensation
If you've noticed water or mist between the glass panes of your double glazing, it's a sign that one of your windows has a failed seal. This could be a cause for concern because it blocks gas or the insulating air from being trapped between the two glass panes and therefore it can't perform its job effectively and can cause temperature fluctuations which can cause condensation to form.
A double glazing expert can easily repair this problem. To fix the problem the window repair professional will take out the affected window sash and IGU (insulating glass unit) before putting into a new gasket to create a sturdy and airtight seal to prevent condensation from happening again. They'll also apply a specific drying agent to help dry the area and prevent the condensation from occurring again.
The other reason why you may notice mist between the glass panes of a double-glazed window is that the framework has shifted over time, which breaks the all-important seal. This can be a serious issue, since windows that are not functioning correctly and lose their energy efficiency.
While it is possible to repair the panes of a double-glazed Windows, this can be very expensive and is normally only required if there are severe issues with a window that are beyond repair. If you are experiencing issues with your double-glazed windows and are still within the warranty period, you might be able repair it at no cost or for an affordable cost.
It's worth checking the terms of your warranty prior to you contact the company to determine whether they can solve the problem without replacing the entire window. Double-glazed windows typically come with warranties of between 10 and 20 years. You might find that the company can fix the window unit instead of replacing it. If this is the case, they will likely send a professional to repair your double-glazed windows. They're able to do this quickly. This is a cheaper alternative to purchasing and installing new double-glazed windows. It's also better on the environment!
Broken Locks & Handles
When your window handle is broken or hard to open, it can be a huge issue as it prevents you from using your windows. It could also give burglars an opportunity to break into your home. There are many options to address this issue, but the best option is to get in touch with an uPVC professional. Depending on the severity of the problem, they can usually fix it for you, or at the very least, provide you with a replacement handle.
There are several kinds of window locks however, the most well-known is the Maco or Mila locks that are found on most uPVC frames. These locks lock with bayonet-style rods, which can easily be jammed. The handle's nose is stuck in the popped-out position and it will not return to the wedged lock position. This can be a gruelling problem, but can be fixed with a few easy steps.
To resolve the issue, you'll have to remove the handle. This should be simple enough with the help of a screwdriver. After you have removed the handle, you'll be able to view the screws that hold the lock to frame. After the screws have been removed, you can employ pliers or a wrench to attempt to grasp the bolts that hold the shoot. If this is unsuccessful then you might need to insert the tool into the gap between the window and frame (the gap could be different on each end of the window) and make an "u" shape using your hands to try to grasp the bolts.
double glazing repair can shut your window by adjusting the handle to a closed position if you're able to free the shoot bolts. The gearbox (espag, espagnolette, etc.) is likely to be damaged and will not open with the handle. You can replace the gearbox (espag or espagnolette) without the shoot bolts, so that the window will still be opened using the handle.
Broken Hinges
If your uPVC window hinges aren't working properly and smoothly, you might need to replace or repair them. Whether this is due to the hinges being opened with too much force, the hinge snapping and dropping or they had a fault at the beginning the issue could cause issues that make using your window difficult. Fortunately the replacement of the hinge is simple and quick and doesn't require you to purchase windows from scratch and you can have your old windows repaired instead.
Remove the hinges. To do this, remove the screws that secure the frame to the hinges. Once you've removed the hinges, you can replace them with plywood boards cut to the correct dimensions. Make sure that the plywood you choose to use is more robust than the original board to ensure it can support the weight of the window both open and closed. Use wood filler to ensure the hole left behind by the old hinge does not leak or break.
After you've replaced hinges and filled the holes, you'll need paint them. Make sure you employ a top-quality paint to ensure it will last for as long as is possible. After the paint has dried it is possible to attach the window again. Make sure you tighten any screws that are loose.
Regular maintenance is also essential for window hinges. You can make them last longer by cleaning them regularly on the friction stay tracks and lubricating the hinge mechanism. You can also apply wood preservatives to protect them against the elements. This will help prevent rusting and keep them looking great for as long as you possibly can.
Double-glazed windows are more energy efficient than single-glazed ones, and can save you money on heating. However, just like every other aspect of your home, windows will show wear and tear and might need repairing or replacing as time passes. Our Preston experts can assist you if you observe any indications that your double-glazed windows aren't working properly.